Easily distinguishable from Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides) by the large curved teeth of leaf edges, mentioned in both common and scientific names. Like that species, Bigtooth Aspen is a pioneer tree after fires and logging and on abandoned fields, short-lived and replaced by conifers. The foliage, twig buds, and bark are consumed by wildlife.

Growing Conditions

Water Use: High Light Requirement: Sun Soil Moisture: Moist Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8) CaCO3 Tolerance: Medium Soil Description: Mesic, rich soils. Conditions Comments: This fast-growing tree is very intolerant of shade and flooding. It invades cleared areas and reproduces rapidly from seed and root suckers. It is short-lived and plagued by disease and insect problems, but is practically indifferent to soil conditions. In any soil, weeding around the tree can boost its growth surprisingly. Aspen can be grown in a clump by periodically removing the older, damaged stems, allowing new sprouts to fill in.

Benefit

Use Wildlife: Aspens are host to a wide array of birds, mammals, and butterflies. Use Other: Large-toothed aspen is important for revegetating recently cut or burned land, holding soil in place and protecting other slower-growing species of plants. (Kershaw) Attracts: Butterflies Larval Host: Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, Viceroy

Butterflies and Moths of North America (BAMONA)

Propagation

Description: Fresh seed germinates readily when placed on a saturated seed bed. Aspens, however, are best established from root cuttings set directly into their permanent locations. Trees can also be started from small sprouts lifted in the dormant season from distu Seed Collection: Not Available Seed Treatment: Not Available Commercially Avail: yes